Clevedon-based Ashley Mansell overturned a three-shot deficit going into the final day to win the PGA Professional Championship at Slaley Hall.
Defending champion Harry Casey held the overnight lead and began the final round at five under-par. Ashley produced the standout performance of the day with a composed three under-par round of 69 in difficult conditions seeing him claim the title.
Ashley made the perfect start, birdieing each of the first three holes, before adding further gains at the sixth and ninth holes. Another birdie followed at the par five 13th to establish a cushion over the chasing pack. Although three bogeys in his closing four holes trimmed that advantage, he topped the leaderboard by two shots with rounds of 75, 68, 71 and 69.
Speaking after the presentation, Ashley said: “I’m over the moon. I didn’t expect this to happen after round one, but I knew this week would be a grind for everyone because of the weather and it was just about keeping myself in it and in a position to potentially win.
“The challenge this week was the wind, the rain and the elevation changes on the course. It’s been playing long out there on a few holes and the crosswinds added to the fun.
“Today’s round, I knew I had to get off to a fast start and make some birdies, which I did. I played the front nine really well. On the back nine, you’re just holding on for dear life. I just got nervous towards the end. We know what is up for grabs at the end of today, and I got a little nervous, but I overcame it.”
As champion, Ashley received the winner’s cheque for £15,000 alongside a host of prizes courtesy of PGA partners Abacus, Silverhand Estate, and Bushnell. Victory also earned him starts in the HotelPlanner Tour’s English Open and Scottish Challenge, as well as a place in the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.
“To have a spot at the BMW is mega,” added Ashley. “I’ve always dreamt of getting into a DP World Tour event, and to finally get into one from this is awesome. To have the two other starts is an added bonus.
“To win the flagship event for The PGA, with the names on this trophy, and to be part of history is amazing. Slaley Hall is a great venue. The golf course has been amazing this week and the greenstaff have done really well. The greens were fantastic, and it was set up perfectly for the conditions we had.
“Winning the English last year, I didn’t foresee winning this. It was always on my agenda to play well, but to actually win is amazing. Hopefully I can use this as a big stepping stone for the BMW. If I can perform well there, who knows what happens.”
East Renfrewshire-based Gavin Hay finished two shots back in second place, while Graeme Robertson (Glenbervie) shot 67 in the final round to finish third.
For full results, click here.
